The mind and heart don't agree

Love is one thing that must be experienced. 

There are no words rich enough to accurately depict this phenomenon. 

The same goes for the deep longing of loved ones that have passed. 

As much as we try to write about the feelings, you can not understand with your mind without having felt it in your heart.

A stone

Throughout life we experience rejection.  It's just the way it is. The beauty (yes I said beauty) of being rejected is that it chisels away the imperfections of our character and guides us down the path where eventually we become the chief cornerstone.  If you know anything about construction, the greatest of care is given to the cornerstone of a structure.  The cornerstone is exacted in shape and dimension.  It is set carefully into the precise location.  It is important because it is the reference point by which all other stones are set.
You are being formed for greater purpose. 

A simple boulder, left for naught.  Formed of hematite, crystal and limestone, pressed under the weight and heat of the world for centuries.  Only to be cut loose from the bonds of the earth by the mason.

Chiseled and hammered until the outlines of my spirit are barely visible, freedom to roam forbidden by my bounds to this earth.  The artist toils and struggles to exact the perfect cuts to develop the masterpiece.

My heart, floating through the mist gathers the remnants of my soul once lost in a battle from long ago, waiting to be joined with my earthly vessel.  Every small piece revealed by a smile, a warm heart, or a gentle caress from a joined soul.

Struggling to break free of the world that binds me, waiting for the final application of the chisel from the master’s hand.

Why?

When I first got into business for myself a very wise friend told me to find the why that makes you cry and use that as the driving force to become successful.  It is a noble character trait to use your emotions to reach your goal.  However, I've been given a turbo adapter of my why that consists of faith and generosity. 

3 quick things about me:

1.  I know my purpose. 
2.  I know my talents. 
3.  It is through faith that I will reach my goal of being generous. 

If you think about the first statement and you truly have a why that makes you cry, I would be willing to bet that your why is not about you.  I have had the great opportunity to speak with a large number of people about why they do what they do and inevitably, their why is about giving. 

Sometimes we just need a spark to start our turbo.

It's all fun and games until...

I didn't have to finish that for you to know the saying.  We all hear sayings, witticisms, inspirational quotes, and snarky remarks throughout our life.  Some have great purpose.  How many of us have ever taken the time to think about how we can use the quote to our advantage. 

Do they make you ponder the possibilities of your life?  I've listed a few that I've come across recently below. 

The challenge is to pick one and think about it today.  Let it become part of you and see what impact it may have. 

1.  You are not the bell curve.
2.  Inspire to be inspired.
3.  What a pity that in life we only get our lessons when they are of no use to us.
4.  Go confidently in the direction of your dreams.  Live the life you have imagined.
5.  Life is really simple, yet we insist on making it complicated.
6.  Only a life lived for others is a worthwhile life.
7.  A whole stack of memories never equal one little hope.
8.  There is a difference between a philosophy and a bumper sticker.
9.  The privilege of a lifetime is being who you are.
10.  Don't wish for it.  Work for it.

Where you start

Some of you know, some of you don't, that there was a sentinel moment in my life nearly two years ago when, in the midst of prayer and listening to music, that I FULLY realized that I was not the person that I wanted to be, nor anything close to the person that I am becoming. 

It's a journey, a long journey, and the travels are just like life.  Sometimes easy and filled with fields of flowers and sunshine.  Other times, it's the cold harsh wind blowing against you in the dead of night in a place where only faith and resolve will carry you through.  I wanted to take that step back today and think about the changes in my life over the past two years. 

Today, instead of looking at where you are going, take a respite and examine your journey from where you started.

It's Time AKA Let's Roll

Stop reliving the past.  It's not you, it's keeping you from the brilliant, radiant, luminescent future that is just right over there.  Beating yourself up over something that happened a gazillion lifetimes ago is almost as useful as a kickstand on a Sherman tank. 

Please tell me how I can help you.  Need a hug?  Need words of encouragement?  Need a plan?  Need something to read?  Need a swift kick? 

Everyone, and I mean EVERYONE YOU KNOW, sees that light glowing through you and it's more beautiful than every sunrise shining through every stained glass window in the world. 

We, the world, those that love and care about you, and those lives you have yet to touch, are waiting for you.

RSVP

Two dimes and a penny

Change is inevitable.  People rarely exist in an emotional/personal growth version of homeostasis.  You must be striving for (positive) change in your life or you risk (and it's a whopper of a risk) of losing the chance to be the person you want to be or worse, changing in a negative manner.

Personally, I welcome change, for with each change I know I am growing and inching closer to the person I see in my mind's eye.  I envision how I want my life to be each day.  I am going to reach my goal, and when that happens, I'll set another, then another, then another...

If you don't become the person you are meant to be, the world will miss out!

Just be ready

I'm constantly amazed at the little messages that come my way.  Perhaps not at the message itself, yet the vehicle in which they are delivered. 

The closing scene of a comedy show I was watching involved a younger man asking advice from an elderly gentleman.  The younger man felt like he needed to be on the go, get things done, rush, rush, rush.  The elderly man told him that life isn't short. Life is long.  Stop pushing and let whatever it is you are seeking come to you.  Just be ready.

That got me thinking.  If you know anything about me, then you know my mind is always on the go.  Sometimes I think I have TFD (thought focus disorder), yes it's a new term that I coined.  Anyway, we are always reminded to live each day as if it were our last.  It may be.  However, I think the inherent problem with that may be that we focus on what can get accomplished today and we lose sight of the true focus of life.  To me, that is making a difference somehow, someway, everyday. 

Don't lose sight of your goal.

Stop trying to force things to come to you. 

Be the magnet.

Be the honey to the bee.

Be AWESOME. 

On being strong

So often the world confuses strength with power. 

The true power of you is shown when you know yourself well enough (and like who you are), to let yourself be vulnerable.  Admission of weaknesses and known faults to those in your circle of life reveals true strength.  Allowing others to see the driving compassion that burns in your heart will not make you weaker.  This admission of self provides a strong foundation for others to follow.  You give them the strength to let their hearts shine in the darkness. 

Quite frankly, what's in your heart always shows through your eyes, you may as well let others see the entire garden in your soul and not just tease them with a glimpse at a flower.  Some may not accept who you are, that's okay, just be you because you ROCK!

Epitaph

Vini. Vidi. Amavi.

What dreams may come

The realization strikes that the gilded crown you wear is tarnished tin and your robes are nothing more than the tattered remains of hope lost.  Yet, you remain steadfast to the truth that lies within your heart.  It is that instant, on the path you travel alone, you become fully aware of a destiny you cannot deny.  Embraced by a desire that burns from deep within your soul, you relentlessly forge through the desolate night to a treasured place where dreams come true.

Are we there yet?

Within the endless opportunities for personal growth, and in the becoming of a better person, I wonder, will we ever get "there".  That place where you genuinely feel that you are that person you've been thinking about.  What does that look like to you?  What are your aspirations for the real you showing up in the world and making a difference? 

As in other aspects of life, you may fall short, yet I submit to you that it is not the attainment of being the most terrific person on earth that matters, it is in your desire and efforts that make the difference.  With each day that you __________ (choose one, or more:  evolve, change, blossom, grow, develop www.thesauraus.com)  you are making a difference.  You may not see it, but I guarantee you that others do.

Today I urge you to take a step to the side and examine where you started on this journey and see how far you have come. The end may not be in sight, but I would be willing to bet you are miles away from your starting point.

Labels

All too often people are lumped into groups, or as individuals, pre-labeled by people that don't know them.  These labels include geek, dork, stuck up, foolish, uninformed, and a litany of terms I refuse to use.

If you've ever been labeled by others, I offer the following. 

Since you know your heart better than anyone, remove that undeserved label assigned you and choose from the one of these :



SUPERSTAR                 COMPASSIONATE                ENERGETIC

                                 SOULFUL           TERRIFIC             CARING

          SKILLFUL          VISIONARY      BEAUTIFUL          STUPENDOUS 

                             TALENTED            ADVENTUROUS 

        COMMITTED           DEDICATED      

                                              AND MY PERSONAL FAVORITE              ZESTY

A day unlike any other.

This was sent to me by a very dear friend.  Please take 10 minutes out of your day to watch, listen, and feel.

A day unlike any other

Just a whisper

It is not for lack of desire that the postings this week have not been occurring.  I have been racking my brains trying to figure out a new, or better, or better received method of telling you that you are a force beyond measure.

Perhaps a whisper to your heart?  "There is nothing you cannot do, there is nothing standing in your way, ask, seek, receive and allow the world to see the amazing person you have been hiding within."

The Walk

On your journey through this life there will often be times when that dusty, dark road is traveled by you alone.  Those times alone are necessary.  You may feel lonely, dejected, or unworthy of a life filled with love and joy.  I've been on that road, many times. 

You can't turn back because you don't want those moments that wrenched your heart to return, and you may feel like you can't go any further.  You must. (insert loud voice here)  One step after another, one step after another...keep moving, keep fighting, keep dreaming...

I'll tell you why the lonely, desperate path is worthy of your time and effort.  That path will lead you directly the door of your heart's desire.

The elation is an instant cure for pain.  I'm at the finish line cheering you on.  I believe in you and so do so many others.  WE believe in you.

Super X-Ray Vision

A healthy dose of optimism does not mean you are ignoring facts.  It means you regard the obstacles as stepping stones. 

Negative situations are no match for the powerful force within you, particularly when you have determination.

Stare through what seems to be holding you back and see yourself, successful, on the other side.

Sunrise

How many times have you ever seen the sunrise and it was an exact duplicate of one previous?  Never. 

Some may be dreading the unfolding of a new day due to personal stress, work conflict, job dissatisfaction, unemployed, underemployed...it's a long list of what we, as a group, face each day.  It occurred to me that with each different sunrise we have opportunity to greet each day with a different point of view. 

You have the innate power to alter your mood and expectations, which go a long way to changing outcomes.  

This is the 30 day challenge.  Each morning when you wake up, be thankful for what you do have and as soon as your feet hit the floor exclaim "It is a wonderful day!"

Dig in.

When you are traveling a path and you feel like you have reached the end, sometimes it takes the will of another to help you pick up your shovel and pick-axe, and keep blazing the trail.  

You see, the road never ends. 

Something you must believe...

You are fearfully and wonderfully made.  You are a creation unlike any other.  You are the most powerful, sentient being on this planet.  Do not let go your dreams, do not quit, do not let those that have no dream left in them steal yours.  Get up, be strong, walk the planet as if you own it, and keep moving, keep believing, keep fanning the embers of your heart, and for goodness sake, will you please believe in you as much as I do?

Dreams are measured in inches...

Stop what you are doing right now and think about your past.  Is that where you live?  Is that the life you think about, or do you have dreams of things so big, that sometimes you wonder how you're going to achieve it?  

It's all about momentum.  Even a rocket ship has to break the chains of gravity.  It doesn't start at 1,000 miles per hour.  It starts by moving an inch, then a foot, then a mile..it's the start that proves  most difficult.  

Do you really want to have that dream become a reality?  Even if you only move one inch, you're closer.  Do something everyday to get yourself closer.  If you must, drag the chain of the past with you until you have enough moment to snap the link that keeps you from your dream.  Having a dream is simple, getting there takes determination.

Even Samurai Warriors know

In the movie, The Last Samurai, Katsumoto was both warrior and philosopher.  A minor story in the movie was his search for the perfect cherry blossom.  Near the end of the movie, Katsumoto was mortally wounded on the field of battle and he was dying.  As the spring cherry blossoms were falling off the trees, he realized then that each cherry blossom was perfect.

You, my friend, are the perfect cherry blossom and I pray that it doesn't take you one moment longer in life to realize that!

 

Danger doesn't have to be dangerous.

When you are striving for something, the action is out on a limb.  The danger is that you are doing something new and you're initially uncomfortable going further and further out on that limb.  Just like with anything you've ever learned, balancing on the limb, the growth of the limb, and your knowledge grows.  Not overnight, not in a week, but in time.  You can feed the tree that holds your limb by learning more about what you are doing right (and wrong) and become so accustomed to living on the limb (where the most sunshine is), that the thought of returning to the trunk and climbing back to earth is evening more frightening than being precariously balanced with the wind blowing.

Hey!!

What are you going to do with these?

Keep Pushing

The day will come when whatever your struggle is will be over.  Whether it business, self-improvement, or anything you want to make better in your life.  Most certainly you will have periods when you wonder if the struggle to reach the goal is worth it.  Think back over your life at those things you have already overcome.  Dig really deep and recall those previous times you felt miserable, then switch to the feeling of accomplishment.  Did that previous "win" occur overnight?  I think not.  You know, you truly know, that within you lies the power to overcome. 

Don't quit, don't stop, keep pushing, get the win!

I believe in you and you should too.

The Fog

Philips Sonicare Healthy Rechargeable Electronic Toothbrush - White - (Google Affiliate Ad)

As I drove into work this morning I was met by a beautiful sight of the sun shining through the fog.  The dispersion of light made the entire sky glow with oranges, yellows and some soft red hues.  It reminded me of how the light through the fog is similar to working towards your goals and dreams.  At first, the goal is seems so wide, that you wonder if you will ever reach it.  As the fog of the dream gets burned off by the desire to reach your goal, the vision (the sun) becomes clearer with each step taken. 

Take a few minutes this morning and concentrate on what you will see, how you will feel, and what joy you will have once you've reached your goal.  YOU will be the sun shining through the fog for others to follow .

I'm good.

I had the extreme pleasure this weekend of having a short conversation with a former Marine.  This man, of 81 years, had that twinkle of life in his eyes, and a heart that matched his smile.  He told me, near the end of the conversation, that he was diagnosed with lung cancer.  While asking a few more questions, he informed me that he wasn't going to seek treatment.  Of course I asked him why not.  As he was turning away to walk off, he smiled that smile of contentment and peace and said, "I'm good". 

I don't think I'll ever forget that moment, that peace he was radiating, or his grace.  I was truly blessed to have that encounter.

No matter what your situation, I hope that today, you can find peace in the storm, smile at someone and let them know you're good.

That's not it...

If you are spinning your wheels, running around like a headless chicken, and chasing smoke to find your dream, I'm here to tell you that's not it.  The dream is inside you.  The dream is an ember waiting for you to breathe life on it, so it sets you on fire to reach the reality of the dream.  If you aren't fueling the fire every day, then you have no right to be anything except disappointed in yourself. 

Take the time right now, and every hour, every day, picture yourself living the dream.  Get off your couch and do something about it.  I'm picturing my dream right now and I promise you that I'm feeding this ember within...better call 911, because this guy's on fire!!!!!

p.s.  If you come near me, I will set your dream on fire too.

The Wall

When you are truly striving to become the whole person you know you are meant to be, there will be obstacles.  Sometimes you need guidance, and that guidance may come in many forms. 

Recently, I've been struggling with a seemingly insurmountable wall for the next step in my journey of becoming.  I thought I knew what I was doing, I did not. 

That guidance, for me, was a kick in the keister to motivate me up and over the wall.  Perhaps my inability to get to the other side of the proverbial wall was fear of the unknown, perhaps it was genuinely not knowing what to do next.  In either case, the kick, the hand up, the new direction, the smashing of the wall, all gets us to the next step.

Keep on your path and don't be afraid to ask for help. 

 

There's more to the story...

I had the gracious opportunity to hear a speech this weekend past from a man that truly embodies the value in developing relationships.

How many of us have friends that we think we know, but when it comes down to it, we only see the surface?  Unless we spend the time to learn the heart/passion/spirit of a person then we just know "things" about them.  Take some time with a friend over the next few days, or weeks, and have a one way listening experience with them.  Ask them about what their passion is.  Allow them the safety of your friendship to develop a trust and just be in that moment. 

I believe that you will be amazed when you focus on others.

Price vs. Cost

If you just glance over the subject line you may initially think that the meaning of those two words is the same.  Let's frame them differently.  When you are going to buy a new car, the price is very important, agreed?  You may ask what is the price, or what is the cost of the salesperson.  However, I believe them to have disparate definitions.  I look at price as what I'm willing to pay for something that will add value to my life.  Cost, on the other hand, is lost money (so to speak).  The cost of ownership of a car means fuel, insurance, and maintenance.  Costs will never be recouped. 

If you frame those questions around your dreams and ambitions, you must know that you will pay a price.  The price may be time away from your family, lost sleep, or suffering the indignation of your friends and family that think you will never succeed.  The cost of quitting is so much greater.  You will suffer the cost of failure much longer.  It will gnaw at you daily, eating away at your self-respect and dignity. 

If you are going to pay for something (a price or a cost), you may as well pay the price and enjoy life.
 

The Peril of NOT Traveling

"Truthful insight on your soul can be terrifying.  Walking toward the center of who you are is a journey that, when taken, is continuous once the first step is initiated.  I'm on that journey and it's not always pleasant to have your faults paraded in front of you, yet it's freedom; unabashed, unadulterated, life giving, soul singing freedom.  Take the step, nourish your heart and soul, and watch what happens."

Ctrl + Alt + Del

Over the last 5 years or so, I have been witness to the rebooting of American values.  Yes, greed is still readily accessible and a path that many still choose.  However, the downturn in the economy has forced, side-lined, crashed, and dashed so the dreams of so many people, that it has given rise to the abandonment of that focus and slowly returned us to the values of love, family, and helping others.  

How many of you have been changed into the person you were meant (and always desired) to be?

That's truly where the wealth is my friends.

 

The Non-Conformist

When I say non-conformist, to some, it has a negative connotation, to others it is a way to embrace their individual uniqueness, to me it is knowing that my Don Quixote nature is just who I am.  Championing causes, rescuing those that need help, being of service, and not being afraid of my emotions is not necessarily a unique trait, but somehow, this combination of macho and nurturing does seem to be at odds with the socialized norm. 

Even as a child I was "different", and that sense of being different runs true to this day. Is my feeling of difference literal or is it subjective?  Big question this early in the morning, have some coffee and think about it from your point of view.  Being different does not equate to being on the fringe of society, nor does it inherently allow you to force people to accept your oddities. 

What I'm really trying to you is this; "You are you and I like that."  You should like you too!  You are a marvelous creature destined for greatness.

 

Super Sunday Edition!!!

I've been thinking, yes it's a never ending thing that swirls in my head, that most people that I'm acquainted with are striving to make a better life.  Whether that be through education, a better paying job, working less, or getting involved with a charity that makes their heart swell, made me wonder if all of this for which we strive is causing us to not live where we are.  Not in a geographical sense, but in a living in the moment sense.  One of the greatest lessons I learned was being truly thankful for a situation I was in.  I wasn't happy.  I prayed hard for things to change instead of altering my attitude.  Once I changed my perspective and became thankful for what I have, and truly lived it, life got better. 

I have been guilty of always being on the go, trying to do more with the same amount of time in the day and, quite frankly, the traction I've gotten is slower than desired.  So, I challenge you to live where you live, be genuinely thankful for what you have, and if you want more for your life, find that ONE thing that will get you there.

 

Life is calling you

Today marks the 34th anniversary of the day I joined the Navy and swore to uphold The Constitution and protect our country from all enemies.  I don't mention that for any applause or accolades.  Please don't respond and say thanks for serving, it was my calling. 

I've had many conversations in the past 14 years about if I would serve again.  The answer is, and always has been, yes.  I would do it out of a sense of duty greater than myself.  The sacrifices made by being away from my family were never pleasant, and many times, I regret not having been home for so many things I missed.  I served for the greater good of not just my family, but for every person in this country that has freedom.  For the dreams of freedom for those in oppressed nations.  This is still the greatest nation on the face of the earth.  If you don't believe that, travel the world and then come back and prove me wrong.

The same thing can be said for your calling.  You don't always know why you're called to do something, (Nature vs nurture) yet you do it for a reason so compelling that words serve no justice in an explanation. It just is.

OK, so all of that long-winded background to ask you these simple questions:  What is your calling?  Are you doing it now?  If not, why not?  If not, step it up and do it.

For the record, it was an honor serving you and this nation.

Finding a spark on a rainy day.

There are highs and lows in any endeavor.  Yes, that is a Captain Obvious statement, yet there is purpose to making that statement.  It is in the lows of reaching your goals where the true determination of your spirit is revealed.  I have some goals, yet recently, haven't been focused on them.  I've been lazy and I need that spark on this rainy day in Kentucky. 

The spark is just this, sending my thoughts out for others, re-motivating myself to keep going, keep reaching for the stars, and keep trying to help others see their own spark. 

I have decided that no matter the weather, my attitude will bring the sunshine.  Get out your shades, because I'm igniting the afterburners. 

How do you know?

Is it age, or an awakening, that makes us realize that what we are doing in life seem suddenly lackluster?  The paradigm shifts that are occurring around us are rooted in the deep seated desire to do more for people, and less for money.  Money is a necessary tool, yet it seems that fulfilling our innate desire to reach out to those in need is spreading through generations.  In the past year, I have had the great pleasure of meeting many people, in many age groups, with a focused desire to help others.  They help others financially, spiritually, emotionally, and without holding a return favor in the balance. 

It is in that place where the connection of human spirits causes us to rise above the clamor of the world, that gives us opportunity to not only experience the joy of giving, but the growth of our spirit. 

I think it a return to the true normal.

Discombobulation

What's your brand? What's your style?  At what are you an expert?  The speed of life isn't slowing down in the world that surrounds us.  We are constantly bombarded by sound bites, 30 second news stories, 15 second commercials, brief opinions, and the ever increasing demands of doing more at our workplace. 

Has the world gone mad, or am I the only person that thinks that long gone are the experts in many fields?  We have non-versations (thanks to the person that coined that term) in texts and emails, many have forgotten the art of conversation (and listening), and we are all too focused on getting to the end without putting in the time to fully understand a situation.

This weekend's challenge...put down your phone, turn off your computer and go have a conversation with someone.  Share a drink, share a laugh, and reconnect with the human race.

It is in that connection where our humanity lies.  It is in that connection where you can open your heart and mind and share time just being human.

The Reflection

Did you wake up this morning, look in the mirror and say, "I am awesome!" ?

There is nothing on this earth as magnificent as you.  You are royalty, the king/queen of your empire, ready to take charge, change a life, change the world. 

What are you waiting for?  The only thing keeping you from what you desire is that one step.  I believe, to the depths of my heart that absolutely nothing can stop you.   Go move that mountain, change the flow of the river of life and let the world see how truly wondrous you are.  I've seen the fire in your eyes when you talk about the things in life that inspire you.

The world is waiting for you, and the world needs you.

The Power of You

I think it only fitting that today's writing is about you.  Perhaps you underestimate the power that you have to change lives.  

A kind word, a simple touch, an honest compliment, or even a small act of kindness can be the difference maker in a life.  

When you give freely, and without expectation of getting something in return, the benefit is for everyone involved in your kind act.  You immediately receive the inherent joy of giving.  Admit it, giving your time, a smile, or a kind word, makes you feel better.  The receiver of your giving gets a gift that is unexpected, not asked for, and validation as a valuable person on this planet.

I know that when I have the opportunity to share, it invigorates me, brings a huge smile to my face, and makes me feel like I have everything I would ever need.

Give a smile, give your time, give yourself and reap benefits that have no monetary value.

A Healthy Dose

While having a conversation about finding happiness in your life, the subject of selfishness came up.  The question was if you continually seek happiness for yourself, while removing the things in your life that are cause for pain or drama, is that selfishness? 

To an extent it is. A healthy dose of selfishness is necessary.  Healthy dose, not an overdose!!!  Keeping yourself emotionally happy and content will lead to a point where you want to share the joy you have found. You cannot tend for others unless you tend to your needs as well.  At times, it is a delicate balance.

Misery loves company, but company loves happiness!  

Go out and share your joy today.

Hit for the cycle

The question to you is this: When life throws you a curve, do you bail out hoping to not get hit by the pitch, or do you stand your ground ready to swing for the fences?

A victim?

I read this morning that if you put all your hope into a circumstance, you will always be disappointed.  When events occur in your life that get you down, are you more focused on the situation, or are you focusing beyond this temporary obstacle?  Life moves forward and if you find yourself stuck with something in your path, change direction, change your focus. 

Things that make you go hmmm...

Once you've experienced the joy of shedding the things in your life that have weighed you down, or stopped you from pursuing your dreams, there may be some confusion of what to do with your "new" freedom.  For me, it was difficult to accept that I am good at making a difference in peoples lives.  Not that I didn't want that, I just had a hard time acknowledging that I am that guy that will build people, find the humanity in the individual, and be the cheerleader/coach that many people need.  That's my success. 

I used to wonder if I was making an impact (read positive difference) with anyone.  Coming to terms (yeah, that sounds a bit on the dark side) with who I am, has opened my eyes to a world of possibility.  I know that what I do, whether it's in this email, personal interaction, or living by example, that I am making a difference. That's my success.

You do as well.  Take pride in that light that shines through you...everybody sees it, you may as well just polish the glass and let it shine brighter.  That's your success!